Festive Things to Do on Christmas Eve in Dubai: Christmas Eve is nearly upon us, and Dubai does not have snow-covered streets or cozy fires, but the city more than compensates with stunning lights, immersiveness, and an unforgettable Christmas Eve. After ordering your takeaway turkey and reserving your Christmas brunch, you now have to work to maximize on the 24th of December.

After you have placed your order for a takeaway turkey and have already made your brunch reservation on Christmas Day, then Christmas Eve is the right time to savor the season. From sparkling markets and immersive winter experiences to indulgent festive dinners, there’s no shortage of festive things to do on Christmas Eve in Dubai that will make you feel merry and bright.
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Here are 5 Festive Things to Do on Christmas Eve in Dubai
1. Admire the Festive Lights at Al Seef
A pleasant evening walk in Al Seef is one of the most charming festive things to do on Christmas Eve in Dubai. The heritage-themed waterfront location becomes a radiant festival hub, and it is full of lit arches, lanterns, and a splendidly decorated Christmas tree, which overlooks the Dubai Creek. Full of flickering lights, warm cafes, and establishing a bunch of photo-perfect moments, Al Seef is a place to relax in the spirit of the upcoming festivities and spend the chilly winter evenings more comfortably.
2. Enjoy a Festive Dinner at Bisou
Eating outside is a very large aspect of the season, and having a special meal on Christmas Eve is one of the most lavish festive things to do on Christmas Eve in Dubai. Bisou offers a sophisticated festive meal consisting of a traditional roast and live carving stations, traditional trimmings, and a live pianist to create the ambience. The experience will feature elegant sharing starters such as beef tartare, crab éclairs, and a traditional Christmas cake to end the night, which is ideal for celebrating in style.

3. Step Into the House of Hype Winter Wonderverse
To get a bit more into it, one of the most playful festive things to do on Christmas Eve in Dubai is to spend it at the House of Hype Winter Wonderverse. This interactive attraction will last between 13 and 28 December and have glowing snow installations, photo booths of an elf theme, festive parades, and unexpected performances throughout the experience. It is perfect for families, groups of friends, or anyone who is looking to bring some whimsy and wonder to their Christmas Eve celebrations.
4. Wander Through Madinat Jumeirah Christmas Market
No list of festive things to do on Christmas Eve in Dubai would be complete without a visit to the iconic Madinat Jumeirah Christmas Market. The market is free to come to, open until late, and it provides the festive joy immediately with its light decorations, traditional elements, and vibrant atmosphere. Sip mulled grape, sample mince pies, peruse holiday stalls, ride an abra along the waterways, and absorb traditional Christmas songs: it is almost impossible to walk away without being holly jolly.

5. Visit Santa at The Grotto
On the one hand, it is one of the most magical and festive things to do on Christmas Eve in Dubai: the last-minute visit to Santa Grotto at the New Covent Garden Theatre, Mall of the Emirates. Children can travel in the Candy Cane Land and the Enchanted Forest and then meet Santa himself and tell him about their Christmas wish lists. The participatory theater, full of festive decor and with the narration, leaves lasting memories and puts a pinch of magic on Christmas Eve.
Make Christmas Eve in Dubai Truly Festive
Whether it is waterfront lights, festive feasts, or an immersive wonderland of winter or even traditional markets, there’s no shortage of festive things to do on Christmas Eve in Dubai. Whether you want to celebrate with your family, friends, or just have a quiet evening in and absorb the seasonal spirit, there are lots of things to make December 24 a really special day in the city.
